Choosing One's Feelings

The notion that individuals have the psychological freedom to determine their thoughts and feelings is fundamental to the philosophy of Frankl's writing. He emphasizes that psychological reactions are not determined for people by any stimuli, no matter how powerful or devastating. Examples detailing the horrific experiences of imprisonment in concentration camps are provided to reinforce this theme. Specifically, Frankl illustrates how it is possible to be continually exposed to a negative environment of death and despair, yet still find a means of discovering meaning in this suffering. Even when death appears inevitable, people possess the inner ability to reflect positively on the things they have accomplished in their lifetime and to put in perspective the current meaning of their suffering. In this respect, individuals' psychological reactions are proven more than a mere expression of physical and sociological conditions.